Race Team Guide 2019-2020
Table of contents
Introduction……………………………………………………..…. 3
1. Bear Valley Program Structure…………………………..……....4
2. Race Team Parenting……………………………………………….7
3. Volunteer Program ...………………………………………………16
4. Equipment…………………………………………………………....18
5. Ski Tuning, Maintenance, Race Prep……………………….….. 22
6. Competitions…………………………………………….….…….... 27
7. Race Logistics………………………………………….……..…..…33
8. Off Season……………………………………………………..….…..35
9. Appendix I – Central Series Race Accommodations ….………36
10. Appendix II – Website Resources ………………………….…...... 39
Head Coach: Nick Shawkey
Publication Contact: Mike Comstock – [email protected]
Introduction
Welcome to the Bear Valley Race Team!
This guide has been developed to assist our Race Team athletes and their families in learning about recreational alpine ski racing programs at Bear Valley and the Far West Division of US SKI & SNOWBOARD. The goal of this guide is to make sure all our team participants understand how the programs work and are prepared to make the experience fun and rewarding.
Like all youth sports, ski racers tend to start young. As they progress, the competition, training and equipment will tend to add intensity to the sport. We must remind ourselves that our young athletes race to have fun and develop their skiing skill for the life long experience and probably will not be the next Bode Miller or Julia Mancuso. That said, there may be a few of our young racers that have the ability and drive to make it to the highest level and they should be afforded every opportunity to realize the goal. Bear Valley Mountain Resort and Bear Valley SnowSports Foundation strive to support the needs of all our athletes in this regard.
This Orientation Guide pulls information from a variety of sources to bring together information regarding various perspectives of ski racing. It is intended to cover our program from entry level racers, who may be as young as 6 or 7 to 14 year olds. From ages 15 and older, ski racing becomes much more competitive and our athletes who compete at that level will be well aware of how to navigate the ski racing landscape. For those who are interested in how this advanced level works, the Far West and USSS Competition Manuals provide a great deal of information.
This Guide will include sections that address the U16/U (13/14 year olds) separately. The U16 and older levels have different rules for competition that will affect our athletes.
Lastly, and most importantly, if you have questions on any aspect of the program, competitions, equipment or other related topic, PLEASE ask the Coaches…they are there to help out in whatever way they can.
1. Bear Valley Race Team Program Structure
As most of you know, Bear Valley has several teams in their Snow Sports program. Most our our Race Team members will have come from the All Mountain ( Devo ) Program where they have developed the fundamental skills necessary for the Race Team. It is not mandatory for Race Team members to have participated in this program however joining the race team does require a certain skill level.
The Race Coaches will assess each athlete to ensure that their skill level is appropriate for participation on the team. This is done for three reasons; first, and most importatnt, the safety of the athlete-whether it be running gates or free skiing, pushing an athlete beyond his/her ability in terms of speed and terrain is dangerous; and second, to ensure that our coaching resources can focus on efficiently developing the skill level of the entire team. If coaches must spend a disproportionate amount of time with an individual athlete on remedial instruction, the progress of the team suffers. Third, if your athlete cannot keep up with his/her team mates, the fun and enjoyment is replaced with stress and frustration.
The Race Team is divided into groups based on age classification.
Junior Racing Classifications for each Season is the competitor’s age as of Dec 31. Age Class Age as of Dec 31 • Seniors 21 and older • U21 19-20 years old • U19 16-18 years old • U16 14-15 years old • U14 12-13 years old • U12 10-11 years old • U10 8-9 years old • U8 7 years old and under
Generally, all racers will train together but compete in age class categories..They also will compete in the same Central Series races although there may be some U14 and U16 Far West races in which U14 and U16 may compete.
During training, the groups may be combined for certain drills or practice. It is very common to combine U10 and U12 athletes. In some cases U14 athletes may train with older racers as well. If several racers require work on a specific skill, one coach may take several racers from their respective groups for a specific drill or training.
As the season progresses, coaches will time the training runs to give the racers a perspective of how their line and technique can influence time. In addition, all racers will be video taped and will have individual assessments with a coach who will point out key aspects of their techniques that both are commendable or need improvement.
During the season, the training will vary with the upcoming race discipline. Techniques and tactics differ among the various disciplines of Slalom, Giant Slalom and Super G. The coaching staff works on disciplines according to the race schedules. Because the U8/U10U12/U14 and U16/U19 have different schedules, it is common for the groups to working on different disciplines. Different disciplines require different equipment (see Equipment Section). Race team members will be advised which disciplines are the focus of each training session so they can come prepared.
When the team is training for speed events such as Super G, training may take place before the resort opens to the public. This is because the runs and speeds required cannot be safely incorporated with the regular operation of the resort. During these training sessions, racers are to be on the Mountain at 7 am. No parents or other non race team skiers are permitted on the mountain during early morning training unless specifically approved to assist with training course set up/take down. Please be aware that early morning training tends to be scheduled for specific groups and/or ability levels. Participating in these sessions is solely at the discretion of the coaches.
Race training by no means is restricted to the training course. In fact, the best racers are those with plenty of free skiing time. Free skiing helps develop the balance, reaction times and judgment required to be a competitive athlete. Free skiing may occur during any training session. At times of heavy snowfall, training courses cannot be set but the team will take these opportunities to free ski.
The Bear Valley Race Team uses the US Ski Team Alpine Training System (next page) which provides a guideline to achieve an integrated system for athlete development. The system is focused on age appropriate content and stages of development, including areas of emphasis within the relevant sport domains, as well as a competition system that optimizes training and competition windows. It is based on a long-term athlete development model for skiers and riders that emphasize age-appropriate training and competition that will allow each athlete to reach their full potential.
The USSS SkillsQuest program is also used to provide structure to teaching fundamental skiing skills. SkillsQuest is a cornerstone program of the Training System designed to assist coaches with and to motivate and reward athletes in working toward and improving abilities in the key areas of emphasis of the Alpine Training System. As its name implies, it represents a quest, or journey toward success in ski and snowboard competition, by focusing on skills, the critical components that make up a high performing ski and/or snowboard competitor. In its full build-out, it will include activities and competencies for skiing and snowboard skills, technique and tactics, conditioning, equipment preparation, performance psychology and athlete management.
Strategies For Parents
A parent’s behavior on and off the field of play can determine whether a child has a positive experience participating in sport. Helping parents to be better role models, volunteers, and supporters is the goal of the Successful Sport Parenting CD-ROM, presented by USA Swimming and the U.S. Ski and Snowboard Association.
Through improved education and communication, the partnerships between the parent, club and coach can be enhanced, culminating in nurturing sports environments for children, while fostering life long participation and a healthy life style.
No matter which sport is surveyed, the general consensus is that the majority of parents are good athletic parents, promoting the values of the club and sport. However, some parents take all of the fun out of sport by the way they behave while watching their children.
faster, perform better, really have fun and have Contents We have all seen the parent who: his self-esteem enhanced as a result. Her sport experience will serve as a positive model for her 1 Sport & Children to follow as she approaches other challenges and obstacles throughout life.” • Why Children Participate • Puts too much emphasis on winning rather • Why Children Drop Out than the fun of competition • What Children May Gain from Sport • Yells abuse at players, officials or the coach Sport & Children • Tries to coach and/or referee from the Why Children Participate… 2 Parent Roles & Responsibilities sideline • What Parents May Gain from a Child’s • Forces their child into a sport they don’t want Participation to play • Enjoy / Fun 28% • Parent Dos’ and Don’ts • Constantly focuses on the negative, • Fitness 15% • Part of the Team undermining the coach and players • Be with Friends 13% • Criticizes their child’s mistakes during the • Compete 13% 3 Parent Education game • Improve 8% • Practical Tips • Embarrasses their child on and off the • Meet New People 8% field, making a scene leaving everyone 4 Parent Etiquette uncomfortable • Parent Code of Conduct Why Children Drop Out… USA Swimming and the U.S. Ski and 5 Parent Strategies in action Snowboard Association represent two national • Examples governing bodies with extensive national and • Takes too much time 18% international athletic success, while supporting • Coach was negative 15% 6 Supporters large athletic development programs from the • Enjoy other activities more 15% grassroots to the Olympics. With the support of • Lack of fun 8% additional sport governing bodies (, Successful Sport Parenting is designed to help all sport • It was boring 9% organizations promote good parent behavior so • Parents’ emphasis on winning 6% that parents can learn to be a positive influence on their child’s sporting experience.
The information in this CD-ROM can be copied and used by clubs to help guide parents, coaches and clubs to promote the highest values of sport.
Dr. Alan Goldberg (Competitive Advantage) “If you [parent] do your job correctly and play YOUR position well, then your child will learn Strategies For Parents What Kids May Gain… Parent Roles & What Kids Want… Responsibilities Physical Benefits: This is what kids have told us they • Improve fitness, strength, flexibility, and co- Parent “Do’s” … want from their parents: ordination • Provide love and support regardless of the • Support and encouragement • Improve general health sport outcome. • To let them know you are proud of them • Weight management • Make your child responsible for his/her sport • Watch them play • Develop a wide range of motor skills preparation (e.g., equipment ready, practice • Praise for their efforts • Establish healthy behaviors that young time, etc.) • Understand their sport and show an interest people will carry throughout their lives • Have realistic expectations and keep in being involved success in perspective • Have realistic expectations of their abilities Social Benefits: • Expose child to many different sports and • Develop communication and interpersonal activities What kids don’t want from their skills • Hold your child accountable for poor parents: • Develop leadership and co-operation skills behaviors during sporting events • To yell at them during or after the game • Create lasting friendships • Provide an appropriate push when your child • Swearing • Increase interest in accepting responsibilities is reluctant or unmotivated • Abuse of the referee or coach • Learn to deal with winning and losing • Emphasize the importance of hard work. • Being pushy and pressuring • Provide a vehicle for responsible risk-taking • Provide transportation, financial, & logistical • Being critical support Personal Benefits: • Recognize and encourage your child when What kids want from sport: • Enjoyment factor – it’s fun!! he or she does something right • Have fun • Improve self-esteem and confidence • Show interest, enthusiasm, and support for • Learn and improve • Improve ability to concentrate: potentially your child and team • Be with their friends facilitating better academic performance • Be in control of your emotions • Learn self-discipline, commitment and • Thank the coaches, officials, and other Other Resources: responsibility volunteers who conducted the event • “Parents: Keeping the Fun in Sport” • Learn organizational skills and how to share • Remain in the spectator area during • “How to be a Winning Parent: A Parent’s and • Learn how to deal with pressure and stress competitions Coach’s Guide for ‘Winning’ in the Youth • Encourage health related behaviors i.e. • Help make sport fun Sports Game” better eating habits, less likely to smoke “Parenting My Champion: Getting Started” Parent “Don’ts”… (From US Tennis Association, used with What Parents May Gain … permission)
• Play a larger role in children’s lives by • Criticize my child for his or her sport sharing of their experiences. performance • Appreciate that children are having fun, • Critique your child immediately following the being active and healthy sporting event or during the car ride home • Healthy children may equal a reduction in • Allow sport to dominate your child’s life medical costs • Exert pressure to win • Security in knowing where your children are, • Treat your child differently dependent upon that they are being supervised and having whether he or she won or lost fun • Put your interests ahead of your child’s in • Children who are involved in sport tend to sport stay in school longer and get better grades • Getting too “caught up” in sport and making it over-important • Assist in developing behaviors that will • Belittle the opponent’s talent or preparation encourage life long health and well-being • Make all the decisions for your child • Advise the coach on how to do the job • Make insulting comments to athletes, parents, officials, or coaches of other teams= • Drink alcohol at sports events or come to one having drunk too much Strategies For Parents
PARENT BEHAVIOR CHECKLIST
Rate on a 1 to 5 scale the questions below relative to your parenting of your child in sport. Think about how your child or your child’s coach would rate you. When finished, total the ratings to assess how effective you are in being a youth sport parent.
1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5
« Not like me Characteristic of me »
1. Do I emphasize the development of my child and 14. Do I encourage my child to seek out new having fun more than winning? challenges and opportunities?
2. Do I have expectations that are realistic for my 15. Do I avoid exerting pressure to win? child as an athlete? 16. Do I model an active lifestyle? 3. Do I rarely criticize my child for his/her sport? 17. Do I emphasize core values like ‘if you are going 4. Do I allow my to child to be responsible for his to do it, do it right?’ sport preparation (meaning I do not do everything for my child including carrying bags, getting water, 18. Do I provide transportation, financial, and preparing equipment)? logistical support?
5. Do I avoid trying to coach my child? 19. Do I provide considerable encouragement by recognizing what my child does right? 6. Do I provide love and support regardless of the performance outcome? 20. Do I try to make the sport fun?
7. Do I emphasize the importance of hard work with 21. Do I avoid focusing the majority of our my child? conversations at home on the child’s sport?
8. Do I expose my child to different sports? 22. Do I act calm and confident in my child as he or she competes? 9. Do I keep success in perspective? 23. Do I avoid considering my child’s sport as an 10. Do I display a positive and optimistic parenting investment and that I should receive something in style? return?
11. Do I avoid allowing my child’s sport to dominate 24. Do I treat my child the same following wins and my child’s entire life? losses?
12. Do I hold my child accountable for poor or 25. Do I provide my child ample opportunity and unsportsmanlike behaviors? resources to be successful in his or her sport?
13. Do I appropriately push my child when he or she 26. Do I allow my child some “say” in sport-related is lazy and does not work hard? decisions?
Strategies For Parents
27. Do I attempt to keep my own interests in the Are You a Pressure Parent? sport secondary to my child’s? The following survey has been taken from the Amateur Swimming 28. Do I avoid getting caught up in the sport and Association of Great Britain. If you answer yes to one or more of these questions, you may be in danger of pressuring your child. making it over-important? It is important to remember that the parents’ role is critical and should be supportive at all times to ensure a positive experience 29. Do I consider my child my son or daughter first, for your child. and an athlete second? 1. Is winning more important to you than it is to your 30. Do I avoid critiquing my child immediately child? following the competition or during the car ride home? 2. When your child has a poor swim, is your disappointment, such as through body language or vocal tones, obvious? TOTAL SCORE 3. Do you feel that you are the one to have to “psyche” your child up before competition?
4. Do you feel that winning is the only way your 150-150 Great job mom/dad! You are parenting your child’s athletic child can enjoy the sport? participation very effectively. Keep doing what you’re doing! 5. Do you conduct “post mortems” immediately after 120-134 You are very effective in parenting your child in sport. Find competition or practice? any items that you scored 3 or below and set a goal to improve. 6. Do you feel that you have to force your child to go to practice? 105-119 At times you are effective parenting your child in sport, but there are some behaviors that may be negatively influencing your child’s experience. Review your ratings 7. Do you find yourself wanting to interfere with and then set a goal to improve scores below a 3. coaching and instructions during practice or competition thinking that you could do better? 90-104 There is a good chance that you are negatively influencing your child’s experience. Review your ratings and then 8. Do you find yourself disliking your child’s read the sport parenting tips on the CD. This will help you opponents? develop ideas for improving your child’s experience. 9. Are your child’s goals more important to you than 89 and they are to your child? Below You are negatively influencing your child’s experience. It is important that you think about your child’s goals and 10. Do you provide material rewards for why he or she participates in the sport. Reflect on your performance? perspective of the sport and how it differs from a healthy perspective of developing the child and having fun. Please review the sport parenting tips on the CD, and set a goal Parents as Part of the Team… every week to improve as a sport parent “Be an involved parent, what can you do to support your child’s sport and club? Become part of the team – volunteer. All sports require a significant number of volunteers (usually parents) in order for the sport to function and to host competitive events, no matter the level of play. It all begins by choosing a program (sport) to fit the child. The next step is to attend the parent meetings to understand how the club functions and what volunteer opportunities are available for parents. All sport organizations survive on the good will and spirit of those parents and supporters who love athletics and are motivated to provide children with a healthy sport experience” Strategies For Parents Your Role on Your Team… After the game: Parent Etiquette in Sport… • Thank the officials and the coach Why is it always me? • Thank the other team for a good game Remember the Golden Rule — treat opposing • Congratulate your child and their teammates players, coaches and officials the way you’d like • Leaders 2% on their efforts to be treated. • Compliment individual players on good plays • Doers 5-10% Dealing with Coaches: • Do Somethingers 15-20% they made during the game. • Focus on the way your child played rather • Parents should avoid asking a coach to • Belongers 68-78% than winning or losing. clarify a decision during the course of a • If your child is upset with losing, help them game. Support the coach in public, in front not to focus on the outcome. of other parents and fans. Other Resources: • If a parent wishes to seek clarification or • “How Can You Help Your Child’s Team” During the car ride home: have a discussion with a coach after the • Point out a good play your child made during game, then the following guidelines should Parent Education the game. be applied: • Avoid criticizing or correcting mistakes • Allow high emotions to subside before Education… • Ask questions like: The parent tips presented here are just that, • Did you have fun? engaging in any discussion. brief ideas to help parents better understand • Did you give it your best effort? • Listen. their athletes and how parents could act around • What did you learn from the game? • Avoid interrupting. their children, both on game day and away from • What was the best play you made and how • Clarify the issue. the club. did it feel? • Obtain closure. • Leave the door open for future discussion. Game Day Tips for Parents… • Remember it is more important to be a good person than be a good anything else. • Parents should leave the coaching to the Before the Game: coaches. Players should be able to hear • Tell your child you love them regardless of Other Resources: the coach’s instructions, from coaches only, outcome. “Parenting my Champion: Developing Talent: during play, half time and practice sessions. • You don’t need to tell your child that winning Recommended Guidelines for Successful Sport • Parents should find opportunities to doesn’t matter because they know it has Parenting” recognise the effort their child’s coach puts some meaning. Instead, help them to into developing their children and the sport. Parents are encouraged to review all the develop a healthy competitive attitude for • Avoid speaking negatively about the coach, trying hard and having fun. materials presented in the “Parents” section of the CD, as well as those areas devoted especially in front of your child. • Tell your child to “go for it, give it your best specifically to the club and coach. Within the shot and have fun”. Parent’s Section of the CD there are categories focused on Growth and Development, Physical During the game: Well-being, Competition and Training, and • Don’t yell instructions at your child during Balance and Support. Each one contains the game. The coach has given them a wealth of detailed information, as well as instructions and their teammates are also examples from a variety of sports and clubs. calling out to them; too much input is confusing. Parent Etiquette • Cheer and acknowledge good play by both teams. On Etiquette… • Never criticize a mistake, only make The negative behavior of a small minority of motivational comments. parents has resulted in the adoption of “Parent • Respect the decisions made by the officials. Code of Conduct” by a wide variety of sport governing bodies. Both USA Swimming and Your child will learn to respect authority by the U.S. Ski and Snowboard Association have seeing you do the same. athlete, coach, official, and volunteer codes of conduct contained within their rules and regulations governing their respective sports. A sampling of parental codes of conduct is presented here, as well as in PDF format. In addition, a brief, bullet point summary of how parents should deal with coaches and officials is presented. Dealing with officials Other Resources: • Parents should not question the decision of an official during the course of a game. “USSA Code of Conduct” 10 Commandments If a parent needs to seek clarification for Sport Parents they should approach the team coach or manager and apply similar guidelines to those above. I. Thou shall not impose thy ambitions on thy • It is never appropriate to question or abuse child. officials during or after a game.
• Remember that officials are doing the II. Thou shall be supportive no matter what. best they can. • In most instances, officials have received training and have a better understanding III. Thou shall not coach thy child. of the rules. • Officials make mistakes, as do players. Even officials aren’t perfect. IV. Thou shall only have positive things to say at a
• Officials may have a different view of the competition. game to those of spectators and so may see something that you cannot, or vice versa. V. Thou shall acknowledge thy child’s fears. • Most officials are volunteers who give up their time to do the job. In fact, many officials are out there because nobody VI. Thou shall not criticize the officials. else will offer to do it.
• Your child may be asked to officiate in the VII. Thou shall honor thy child’s coach. future. How would you feel if they were abused for making a mistake? Officials deserve your respect and support. VIII. Thou shall be loyal and supportive of thy team. • Remember, without officials there would be no game. Abusing officials will not change the outcome of the game but it will lead to IX. Thy child shall have goals besides winning. fewer and less qualified officials.
Parents are role models for their X. Thou shall not expect thy child to become an children – your children will reflect Olympian. your attitude towards coaches and officials. Have you ever offered to officiate or coach?
Start The Season Out Right – Five First Day Tips for Parents By Jon Nolting, USSA Sport Education Director
The first day of the new season is fast approaching. It should be a day of excitement and fun for your skier or snowboarder, something they've been looking forward to ever since the leaves started changing. The first days of the season are very important in many aspects for your child. Whether you are new to a ski or snowboard program or have been at it many years, these tips will help you prepare your child to have a successful start to a great season.
1. Be ready with the right gear. If your club has not provided any guidance, ask them for it. We offer these tips that will generally always apply: The boots are a very important piece of equipment. Proper fit and flex are essential. Don't fall into the trap of buying boots that are a size larger than your child's feet for them to grow into. A serious loss in performance, and often in comfort, is the result. Boots will pack out some with wear, so they should be tight to begin with. Let your child walk around the house before their first training day to get their feet used to the boots. Also be sure to have the bindings of their skis or board adjusted to the new boots before they show up for training. Make sure your child dresses warmly and in layers. Not only will your child have an unpleasant day if they are underdressed, but the whole group will be impacted as the coach ends up spending more time in the lodge with the group than in teaching and skiing/riding the trails. Avoid these common mistakes: cotton socks, gloves with little insulation or waterproofing, and goggles that fit poorly in the helmet leaving a gap of exposed forehead. Don't forget to put your child's name and phone number on everything. It will get left somewhere over the course of the season and you'll want to get it back! Have a quality helmet. You want your child to train hard, so they need to wear a quality helmet at all times that meets competition regulations. Like with boots, a snug fit is important for proper function and comfort. Take care of those helmets. Don't let your child carry it outside their bag, pack it inside to keep it from losing its ability to protect your child in a crash. Get your lift or trail passes before the first day of training if possible. Otherwise expect long lines and arrive early.
2. Boost your child's energy. The first day for your child usually involves an early wake up call, and a long day outside. Ensure your child gets enough sleep by having things ready a day ahead of time, so they can go to bed early. Encourage hydration by having your child drink plenty of fluids the day before, and before 6:00pm. Prepare a healthy dinner with plenty of carbohydrates. In the morning, allow time for a healthy breakfast. Have your child pack some easy to eat snacks in their pocket that won't freeze or get hard in the cold weather. Even though your child may not sweat in the cold, winter weather, they will become dehydrated. An insulated water bottle or Camelbak is a good idea to keep on them.
Five First Day Tips for Parents Page 1
3. Set expectations and ground rules for your child's participation. Identify what things are your child's responsibility when it comes to getting ready for ski or snowboard practice. They should take on more and more responsibility as the season goes along. Help by making a list of what your child needs to have packed for the day and have them post it somewhere they can check each day. Discuss the other expectations you have of your child to participate in their sport – keeping grades up, working on their fitness, eating right and staying hydrated, and helping out around the house all may be part. Come to an agreement before the first day of training. It is also important to understand what your child's goals and motivations are for their skiing and snowboarding so you can support these over the course of the season.
4. Get involved. The first step is to genuinely show Getting involved in your child's skiing interest in your child's involvement in skiing or or snowboarding is important, but snowboarding. Talk to them about it, watch them don't let your involvement conflict at events (and at practice too), and get to know with your child's coach's role. If you their coach. A great way to learn more about the believe that your child is not getting sport is to volunteer to help at competitions. Start all they need from their coach, on day one finding out from your club how you can discuss your concerns privately with help out, stay informed, and connect with other the coach. You want your child to families. get their coaching from the coach, so
they can rely on you for loving 5. Ask the right questions. There are two parts to support whether they are struggling this. First is asking the right questions of your or experiencing great success. child's coach or club. Get your child's competition schedule and find out how to register for events. Ask about your child's attitude and progress. Ask about things you can help reinforce at home. Learn when your coach is accessible. Before practice is usually too hectic. First thing in the morning is also the most hectic time for the club office. You are more likely to get good answers to your questions later in the morning from the club office, or after practice from your coach. The second part is asking the right questions of your child about their skiing and snowboarding. Ask them about practice. Find out what they are learning. Ask them what they think is fun, what is challenging, what they don't like. Many times as parents we get caught up asking them how they did, what place they got, or whether they beat so-and-so. Instead, from the first day of training, show more interest in what they are doing to get better than in what their outcomes are. This way you won't be inadvertently adding pressure to them in competitions, and you can help them keep racing in perspective. Praise them for their effort, not their abilities, and they will have the best chance for success and enjoyment.
Five First Day Tips for Parents Page 2
Bear Valley Race Team - Racer/Parent Contract
As a Racer, I ______promise to:
• Be courteous and treat other skiers, fellow athletes, parents, officials, ski area personnel and coaches with respect. • Always follow safety rules set by ski patrol, coaches and officials at practice and competition venues. • Do my very best to listen and learn from my coaches. • Be modest when successful and be gracious in defeat. • Respect the privilege of the use of ski area facilities. • Demonstrate good sportsmanship before, during and after races. • Show up for training on time, with proper equipment and ready to ski. • Place school commitments and homework as my first priority. • Have FUN! Athlete signature: ______Date:______
As a Parent/Guardian of a Racer, I ______promise to:
• Place the emotional and physical well being of my child before a personal desire to win. • Encourage good sportsmanship by demonstrating positive support for all athletes, ski area personnel, officials and coaches before, during and after every practice, race or other BVSF event. • Help my child enjoy the youth ski racing experience by contributing where I can, such assisting with volunteer duties or helping the coaches. • Let the Coaches do the coaching. • Advocate a sports environment for my child that is free of drugs, tobacco, alcohol and abusive language, and refrain from their use during youth sporting events. • Help my child show up to training and races on time, with proper equipment, and ready to compete.
Parent/Guardian Signature: ______Date:______
3. Volunteer Program
Many members of Bear Valley’s Team Program do not realize how much work there is to be done in order to have a successful season. Other than our paid coaching staff, all tasks are performed by our BVSF member volunteers. Many other youth sports programs require volunteer commitments.
Some Ski Clubs have a Volunteer Deposit Program that requires a deposit of several hundred dollars but enables members to “earn” back their entire deposit. Instituting a Volunteer Deposit Policy was considered but we elected to try a program that, while structured, does not require a deposit. We hope that this will be successful so a Volunteer Deposit program is not necessary. Our Team Program is only as successful as our members make it!
There are many jobs to be done, and these jobs have different “values”. We are reflecting the different job values by assigning a point based “work credit” on a scale from 1 to 20. Frequently, the “value” of the job and the estimated time of work are not equivalent. This policy is designed to incent members to volunteer for the critical jobs that must be accomplished.
The season Volunteer Point requirement varies by Team. Race Devo requirement is 10 points; Race Team is 20 points
Sign-ups are on a first come first serve basis. In some cases, the jobs may require a certain level of skill or knowledge so the Volunteer Coordinator reserves the right to approve and/or reassign as appropriate, of course with the volunteers’ knowledge.
There may be some jobs that are determined to be of greater effort that the 20- point commitment. In these cases, BVSF will provide for a “team credit” which can be applied toward next season’s team program.
We encourage members to volunteer for jobs that equal 50% or more of their point requirement prior to the beginning of the season. This can be done at the pre-season Meet & Greet session. Additional jobs can be signed up for during the season.
Credit for a job is earned only after the task associated with the position is fulfilled in a satisfactory manner. When you arrive to perform your job, check in with the Volunteer Coordinator and/or event chairperson who will verify the completion of the job. These positions are subject to change in nature and/or points.
A list of some Volunteer positions is below. Positions and availability are subject to change in nature and/or points. We will use an online system for volunteer job sign up. All available jobs and their point value will be posted on the site. We will send volunteer reminders to the team parents and other BVSF members. More details will be communicated during the season.
Volunteer Jobs
Job Description Race Arena set up/take Set up and take down fencing, timing, and down for Rasmussen Classic other preparation for January race race course/arena. Set up is Friday prior to race. Training course set up/take Set up and take down fencing for training down course. Assist with course set up and take down. Occurs Sat/Sun each weekend. Multiple volunteers Gatekeepers-Rasmussen Multiple Volunteers on Sat/Sun for SL race Classic Race Stager Rasmussen Sequences racers for starting gate. Single Classic volunteer/one back up Race Starter Rasmussen Oversees racer start. Single volunteer/one Classic back up Race Registration helpers Assists with racer registration beginning at 7:30 Rasmussen Classic am. May help with registration prep work. Multiple volunteers Race Staff Lunch prep Prepares bag lunches for Race Staff on Sat and Sun of BV SL race Race Award Dinner Chair- Responsible to coordinate Race Award Dinner, Rasmussen Classic includes all aspects of event including volunteer assignments. Single volunteer or co- chairs Race Award Dinner helpers Assist with Race Award Dinner may include variety of tasks including ticket sales, food servers, clean up. Multiple volunteers Race Announcer Rasmussen Announces racers and times during event Classic 2 volunteers; 1 each day
Race Award Coordinator Orders and organizes distribution of trophies/awards for Rasmussen Classic race
Fundraiser Chair Leads fundraising activities. Fundraiser Solicits merchandise for raffles/auctions Assists with fundraising. Multiple volunteers throughout the season
4. Equipment
Each discipline of ski racing has equipment with different characteristics. Equipment includes boots, skis,bindings poles, and body protection. Most of the equipment used by youth racers is designated as “junior race”. This separates the equipment from youth recreational ski equipment in terms of design, performance and durabilty. Junior race equipment is typically available from major name brand manufacturers and is usually avialble through specialty ski shops rather than large chains that offer recreational gear.
The following guideline will get you started in gear selection. The race team coaches are the best authority if you have quesitons about equipment.
Ski Boots- It is important that racers have ski boots that are of the proper design and fit for racing. Ski boots should be 4 buckle boots. Ski boots should be sized so that the fit is snug. In addition to length, ski boots tend to be designed to be low, medium or high volume fit. This designation is aimed at accommodating the width and mass of the skier foot. Certain manufacturers have certain fit characteristics. For example, Lange boots traditionally have been recognized as a low-medium volume boot. Most junior skiers usually fit best in low to medium volume boots. Junior race boots also come in a variety of “flex indexes” which related to the stiffness of the boot. Most junior boots have flex indices between 60 and 100. In general, U8/U10/12/U14 racers will want to have boots in the 60- 80 range of flex index with the stronger, heavier U16s in stiffer boots of 90-100. iManufacturers of junior race boots include Fischer, Lange, Nordica, Salomon, Tecnica, Rossignol, and Atomic.
It is recommended that boots be purchased at a location that stocks junior race equipment has staff qualified as “boot fitters”. In addition to the size, proper boot fitting may also include checking the skier stance in the boot to see if “canting” is called for. This is to ensure that the boot and therefore the ski is absolutely flat when the skier is standing. If a racer is slightly “knock kneed” or “bow legged” this will need to be compensated for through canting to ensure the racer properly controls the ski. The boot fitter may also recommend custom foot beds for the boots which have the effect of greatly improving the fit in many cases.
Skis-Typically racers have a pair of skis for Slalom and a pair for Giant Slalom. Older racers, U16 and beyond may also have Super G and downhill skis. For entry level racers ages 7-9, there are dual event skis that will perform well for both Slalom and Giant Slalom.
Racers should have skis that are specifically designated as Junior race skis. These skis are specifically designed to be of the correct flex and torsional rigidity which are appropriate for alpine racing. These skis will perform much better than a youth recreational ski.
Slalom skis are relatively short skis with a fairly big “side cut”. The side cut refers to how much difference there when comparing the width of the tip to the waist (section under the foot) and tail. Skis with a big side cut tend to have a shorter turn radius meaning the ski can make sharper turns. In the SL discipline, gates are closer together necessitating tighter turns. Typical turn radius of a junior SL ski would be around 9-12 meters, with shorter skis having a smaller turn radius. The easiest way to determine the length of SL skis is to stand the skis on their tails. As a general, ruleappropriately sized SL skis will be of a length that is between the chin and eyes of the racer.
Giant Slalom, or GS skis, are skied longer than SL skis. As a guideline, GS skis should be of a length that is from mid-forehead to 2-3 inches above the racer’s head. The better the skier, the longer ski he/she can handle. These skis typically have less side cut than SL skis, but their shape is still fairly pronounced. Typical turn radius of a junior GS ski would be from 14-18 meters, again depending on length of ski.
Dual event skis fall between SL and GS in terms of sidecut. Thse skis should be skied at a length that is eye level.
Manufacturers that make junior race skis include Atomic,Blizzard, Elan, Fischer, Dynastar, Head, Nordica, Rossignol, and Volkl.
At the higher levels, some racers have 2 pair of identical skis, one for training and one for competition. This ensures that race skis are maintained in pristine condition. However this is completely optional and not necessary for racers to be competitive.
While U14 and older racers may have a separate pair of ski for course inspection, preserving the tune on their race skis for competition, U12 and younger competitors must use only one pair of skis per race (inspection & competition). Parents, coaches or technicians are not allowed to furnish additional pairs of skis for use during race day inspections or competition. Non- compliance may result in NPS or depending on circumstances, DSQ (proven violation after start).
Bindings- Most ski manufacturers make their skis to be used with their own brand of bindings, such as Atomic and Fischer or with specific bindings from partner manufacturers manufacturers such as Dynastar/Look bindings or Volkl/Marker bindings. Ski shops that sell race skis generally either package skis and bindings together or will recommend the appropriate binding for the ski. As with the other equipment, it is important to use junior race bindings. Not only do these bindings tend to work better with race skis, but they are typically designed to be “free flex” bindings meaning their release properties are not changed by a fully bent ski. As kids learn how to edge skis well, they will bend or arc the ski significantly. It is important that the bindings ability to release is not impaired when this occurs.
Look for binding DIN ranges that are appropriate for your racers size and ability. DIN ranges of 3-10 for most racers in the U8/U10/U12/U14 classificationa with heavier, stronger U16s using bindings with DIN ranges up to 14. Here again ski shops that specialize in race gear and/or coaches are best resource to ensure the appropriate bindings are used.
Poles- For most beginning racers, standard ski poles of the appropriate length are all that are required. For SL races, pole guards must be used to protect the hands if the skier “cross-blocks” the gates. Pole guards should be of the full guard type that clamp to the shaft of the pole and are achored by a screw at the top of the grip. “Half” guards can catch a gate which could be a safety issue.These pole guards must be removed for GS and other events, again this is for safety. Please note that Coaches will often have young, entry level racers refrain from cross blocking gates. Infact, U8/U10/U12 racers actually use short “stubby” gates for their competition. Please consult with your child’s coach regarding the need for pole guards
Many racers use a separate set of poles for GS and other speed events. These poles are contoured to fit around the profile of the racer’s body when in a tuck position and are meant to reduce drag. Entry level skier need not work about this, but it is convenient not to have to remove pole guards from poles when switching disciplines. In addition GS poles are generally used in a longer length to help with a better push out of the start gate.
Helmet - Probably the most important piece of body protection equipment is the helmet. Helmets are required for all Bear Valley team participation, but there are a few requirements for helmets used by the race team. Race helments must be full coverage helmets with rigid, not soft, sides. Helmet face guards are required for SL races, so make sure your racer’s can accommodate the optional face guard.
Goggles- Goggles should be a good fit with the helmet and have a good quality lens.
Shin Guards- The technique used to run a slalom course quickly requires the racer’s skis to go around the gate, but his/her body to go “at” the gate which can be knocked out of the way due to its spring loaded base. One of the ways the racer knocks the gate out of the way is by “shinning” by hitting the gate with the shin. It is for this reason, that shin guards are required for the slalom discipline. Shin guards are available in a variety of sizes and should cover the leg from the knee and extend down to cover the top part of the boot.
As with cross-blocking, often coaches will want young, entry level racers to refrain from “shinning” gates. Please consult with your child’s coach regarding the need for shin guards.
Speed Suit- The purpose of the speed suit is to aid the racer in being as aerodynamic as possible by reducing drag. Although entry level racers are not required to wear a speed suit, your young racer will undoubtedly want to have a speed suit. There are general types of speed suits; a GS suit which typically has padding sewn in the arms and shoulders and a downhill suit which does not have padding. Because of the padding, GS suits tend to cost a bit more, but the protection they afford is probably worth it.
Speed suits are expensive, usually costing around $200 and up when new. However, used speed suits can usually be located from other team members who may have out grown them or through sources like eBay. If you do find a downhill suit that lacks padding, padded tops can be purchased to be worn under the suit for protection.
Body Armor – More advanced racers may want to consider using some sort of body armor for SL events. This body armor is an added layer of protection for the torso when hitting gates. Some body armor consists of rigid panels sewn into a top while others consist of additional padding. Coaches should be contacted for suggestions if you are considering this type of gear.
Spine Protectors - Spine protectors are designed to protect the back against impact in the case of a high speed fall. Spine protectors are recommended to be used by all racers especially for GS, Super G and Downhill competitions and training.
Mouthguards – Mouth guards are highly recommended for all racers engaging in gate training and competition activities. Not only have they been shown to minimize injury to teeth and mouth tissues during any kind of impact, but also relate to concussion issues from sudden acceleration of the lower jaw in the event of head trauma.
Backpack- A good ski backpack is essential to carry water, snacks and gear during training sessions and at races. The best type of packs have padded shoulder straps and a waist strap.
Equipment Sources – Ski racing equipment is typically of top quality and can be quite expensive. BVSF works with the Ski Coaches to find the best prices through negotiated discounts and manufacturer discounts known as “pro-form” pricing. Very good deals on used ski race equipment can also be found through the BVSF community and its website. Also, check Appendix III of this publication for online sources offering good prices. In order to get the best prices, call the online retailers and tell them the purchase is for a USSS racer and have your USSS number ready.
5. Ski Tuning, Waxing, Race Prep
This section is not intended to be a “how to” guide because there many sources that expertly cover the subjects of how to tune and wax skis. Instead, this section helps you understand “what” is done to properly prepare race skis. Resources where you may find the expert “how to” information are near the end of this section
Edge tuning Edge preparation will determine how the skis feel on snow. The edge geometry chosen should match the skiers’ ability and the equipment. By preparing and maintaining your own skis a dependable level of consistency can be achieved. Instead of tuning skis once at the beginning of the ski season, only to let them get progressively worse until they are tuned again, maintaining the base and edges means that your skis will always perform well. Predictable performance is not only safer, but can also become the foundation for improvement.
When you hear about edge bevels there are two angles that are being described, base edge angle, or base bevel, and side edge angle or side bevel. It is very important to understand the difference between base and side bevels, as they have different effects on the ski. Base bevel is the amount that the edge is tipped up off the snow relative to a flat base.
Base bevels range from 0 degrees to 1.5 degrees. Less base bevel makes a ski quick and grip hard. Slalom skis often have only a half degree of base bevel. More bevel on the base lets the ski transition from edge to edge more easily, making the ski more forgiving, especially at speed. For this reason downhill skis often have base bevels up to 1.5 degrees. Side edge bevel refers to how much the edge is “pointed” and is measured relative to 90 degrees of the base. To confuse you further there are three methods to describe this angle. Some people describe the angle as an increase from 90 degrees, therefore two degrees is 92, conversely this angle can be described as a decrease from 90 degrees making two degrees 88. Most simply this angle can be described by its difference from 90.
Side bevel determines how the edge will hold, mild bevels of 0-1 degree provide some bite, but remain forgiving for less advanced skiers. For someone seeking a higher level of performance, side bevels of 2-3 degrees will allow the ski to hold better, especially on hard snow. Extreme side bevel of 4+ degrees hold even better, but can become too demanding for most people. Because of the increase in hold, the ski will be harder to break loose once it has been set on edge making a line correction very difficult.
Waxing Regular use of wax will allow your skis to glide and turn easier than skis with an untreated base. Skis actually ride on a very thin layer of water as they move across the snow. The water repellent wax reduces the friction of the ski base over the snow making the ski glide easier. Most waxes today is paraffin, a hydrocarbon petroleum byproduct that has hydrophobic (water-repellent) properties. Wax will also protect your base from oxidation. Bases exposed to oxygen will oxidize and become rough, similar to the roughness created when steel oxidizes in the form of rust. Wax seals your base to prevent harmful oxidation which slows ski glide.
Fluorocarbon Waxes Since their introduction in 1990, fluorocarbon waxes have proven indispensable for serious racers. Unlike regular paraffin-based hydrocarbon waxes which are comprised of carbon molecules with neutrally-charged hydrogen atoms, fluorocarbon waxes are comprised of carbon molecules with negatively-charged fluorine atoms. Somewhat like Teflon, they repel water better by reducing friction (capillary attraction) between bases and water in the snow pack, plus help keep bases cleaner and faster in dirty snow by repelling dirt particles (which, like the fluorine molecules, are negatively-charged). As of the 2019-2020 Season, U14 and under competitors should refrain from using fluorinated wax. In any case, application of any type of waxing solution must not be applied at U14 and under competitions venues. Use of ski preparation benches at U14 and under competition venues is not allowed.
Choosing waxes Both hydrocarbon and fluorocarbon waxes are offered in a variant of universal and temperature specific formulations. In addition, fluorocarbon waxes also are offered in humidity specific formulations with low-fluoro wax is best suited for dry, low humidity conditions (when it’s hard to make a snowball), and high-fluoro wax is for wet and high humidity (when it’s easy to pack a wet snowball). It penetrates deeper into p-tex bases and lasts longest when melted in using a hot wax iron. When a ski is waxed, heat transferred from the iron to the ski's base expands its pores allowing it to be impregnated by molten wax.
Overlays As your racer moves up into the more competitive age classification, the preparation of the ski becomes more imporant especially in the “speed events” of GS, Super G (and Downhill…but this does not concern entry level racers). The final step for preparing a ski for a speed event is the application of a fluorocarbon overlay. Overlays are available in liquid, paste or powder form. The overlay is applied to a race ski after it is properly waxed with the temperature specific wax for the conditions on race day. The overlay is applied based on manufacturers instructions with each form of overlay requiring a different procedure. Once the overlay is applied, the ski should only be place on the snow just before the starting gate. While overlays will provide for a fabulous glide, they last but one run.
Getting this done… While a good ski shop can handle the task of race tuning and waxing, at some point most racers and/or their parents become “ski techs” and take care of the racers skis. In order to do this, there are special tools required. The following list provides and overview of what is needed for the “do it youself ski tech” Tuning Equipment
Basic Tuning Average Racer Competitive Racer Tuning Bench Tuning Bench Tuning Bench Tuning Vise Tuning Vise Tuning Vise Wax Iron Wax Iron Wax Iron Plexi Scraper Plexi Scraper Plexi Scraper Metal Scraper Metal Scraper Metal Scraper Nylon Brush Nylon Brush Nylon Brush Gumi Stone Gumi Stone Gumi Stone Ski Brake Retainer Ski Brake Retainer Ski Brake Retainer All Angle Base Edge Guide All Angle Base Edge Guide Multi-Tool Base/Side Edger All Angle Side Edger Guide All Angle Side Edger Guide File Brush File Brush File Brush Blue 70-mm DMT Full Set 70-mm Full Set 70-mm and Diamond Stone DMT Diamond Stones 100-mm Diamond Stones Hydrocarbon Wax Hydrocarbon Wax Hydrocarbon Wax Brass Brush (opt) Fluorocarbon Wax Fluorocarbon Wax Brass Brush Brass Brush Horse Hair Brush Horse Hair Brush Fibertex Buffing (3)Pads Fibertex Buffing (3)Pads Polishing Cloth Polishing Cloth Natural Cork Natural Cork Hi Fluro overlays (opt) Hi Fluro overlays Overlay Brushes Overlay Brushes Scraper Sharpner Scraper Sharpner Sidewall plane Sidewall plane Training Fluoro Wax Hybrid Wax (opt) Hard Chrome File Synthetic Cork Synthetic Cork (hardwood) Felt Block (hardwood) 5X Magnifier Red Gumi Stone Steel Brush Base Cleaning Brushes
(extra brass, just for dirt) Fiberlene Paper True Bar Tan Gumi Stone (opt)
There are a large variety of guides on how to properly tune and wax your skis, providing detail on how to use all the above tools.
Here a number of good sources:
Toko Alpine Tech Manual http://www.tokous.com/Manuals/Alpine%20tech%20manual.pdf
Swix Wax School http://www.swixschool.com/web_tysk/index2.html
Tognar Tool Works http://www.tognar.com/how-to-tune-wax-repair-ski-snowboard-database/
Race Place Tuning http://www.the-raceplace.com/Ski-and-Snowboard-Edge-Tuning-Info-s/95.htm Waxing http://www.the-raceplace.com/Ski-Waxing-Info-s/93.htm
If you decide becoming a ski tech is not for you, there are a number of shops that can take care of race skis. Just be sure to be clear about what you want done. The quick “roll on” wax job is not adequate for a racer’s need. Bear Valley Sport Shop in the Village can handle all your tuning and waxing needs. Also, the Repair Shop at the Mountain can handle tuning and waxing, but make sure you are clear on what you want. For base grinding and top of the line ski prep, The Start Haus in Truckee can’t be beat. Granite Chief in Truckee is also an excellent race prep shop. 6. Competitons
The Bear Valley Race Team competes in events that are sanctioned by US SKI & SNOWBOARD. US SKI & SNOWBOARD is divided into 3 Regions, Eastern, Rocky/Central, and Western. Each Region is further divided into Divisions. Bear Valley Race Team is a member club of the Far West Division of the Western Region
There are 4 different types of races or disciplines in Alpine ski racing. Slalom (SL), Giant Slalom (GS), Super G (SG) and Downhill (DH). Each discipline has its own characteristics such as length of course, verticle drop, number of gates and distance between gates. Slalom courses are shorter and have tight gate placement requiring shorter, quick turns. GS, SG and DH events are characterized by progressively longer courses, gates set much farther apart and much higher speeds. All levels U8 to U21 run SL and GS courses.U12/U14 U16/U18/U21 run SG and only U16/U18/U21 run DH events. Full details on each discipline can be found in the US SKI & SNOWBOARD Alpine Competition Guide.
Race Eligibility All Far West competitors involved in US SKI & SNOWBOARD junior racing must be members in good standing of FAR WEST SKIING, and members of US SKI & SNOWBOARD, in order to participate in any US SKI & SNOWBOARD or FIS races. Athletes must be able to present their current US SKI & SNOWBOARD card, indicating appropriate age class and membership status, to race organizers in order to compete in any US SKI & SNOWBOARD race.
FAR WEST SKIING members will receive ONE consolidated bill from US SKI & SNOWBOARD for US SKI & SNOWBOARD and FAR WEST SKIING dues. Members will receive one US SKI & SNOWBOARD card, indicating US SKI & SNOWBOARD and FAR WEST SKIING membership status. US SKI & SNOWBOARD and FAR WEST SKIING each charge a late penalty for memberships not received by October 15; this does NOT apply to new members. Memberships will not be processed until complete, including all paperwork and fees (including penalties where applicable).
Membership requirements: (fees are for 2019-2020) All Central Series and Far West competitors must have the appropriate competitor license:
U12 & under-US SKI & SNOWBOARD fee: $75+Far West fee: $38 = $113 U14 - US SKI & SNOWBOARD fee: $100 + Far West fee: $53 = $153 U16+- US SKI & SNOWBOARD fee: $170 + Far West fee: $53 = $223
Short term, daily memberships are also available. Daily Membership U18 and under US SKI & SNOWBOARD fee: $30 + Far West fee: $5 = $35
Online Membership application and complete information can be found at the US SKI & SNOWBOARD website https://usskiandsnowboard.org/membership
Class and Competition Structure The following is key information from the Far West Skiing Competition Manual and the US SKI & SNOWBOARD Alpine Competition Guide . Further detailed information can be found in these resources.
U8/U10/12/U14 Races The U8/U10/12/U14 program is for racers ages thirteen and under. Twelve and thirteen year old athletes race as U14s; those 10 and 11 compete as U12 with 8 and 9 year olds designated as U10. U8/U10/12/U14 races in the Far West are non-scored US SKI & SNOWBOARD-sanctioned events. U8/U10/U12 compete in the same races but are maintained as separate fields with their own start lists and are run separately. Depending on the disciplines U14 may compete in the same races or have their own race designation. The starting order is determined by random draw, which is reversed for the second run in GS and SL races. All competitors are allowed to start the second run in their starting spot, including those who did not finish (DNF) or were disqualified (DSQ) in the first run. Awards will be given for each age class and gender. Hero gates will be used for all U8/U10/U12 Slalom events.
New for the 2019-2020 season: • Application of any type of waxing solution must not be applied at U14 and under competitions venues. Use of ski preparation benches at U14 and under competition venues is not allowed. • U12 and younger competitors must use only one pair of skis per race (inspection & competition). Parents, coaches or technicians are not allowed to furnish additional pairs of skis for use during race day inspections or competition. Non-compliance may result in NPS or depending on circumstances, DSQ (proven violation after start).
Typically in ski racing, bibs are assigned based on start number and distributed at each race. For Central Series races, each resort has its own supply of bibs that are permanently assigned to racers. Typically for Championships, racers purchase bibs which they then keep. For other Far West races, bibs are assigned for the event only and must be returned at the end of the event. If a bib is forgotten, a substitute bib will be available from the hosting mountain either with a $20 deposit or a charge to the Team credit card of $50 if it is not returned.
Bear Valley, along with Dodge Ridge, Yosemite Ski Club (Badger Pass), and China Peak comprise the Central Series of Far West. There is also a North Series and a South Series. Throughout the season, most of the races our team attends are Central Series races. The series consists of two slaloms (SL), two giant slaloms (GS) and two Super-G’s (SG) for U12/U14 athletes; and two slaloms (SL), two giant slaloms (GS) and two one run giant slaloms (with minimum gates and maximum length) (one run GS) or a two run GS for U8/U10 In addition, there are three races (SL, GS, SG for U12s; SL, GS, one run GS or two run GS for U8/U10) at the divisional championships. The U14 class has a separate Championship event. There are also non-series races for U8/U10/12/U14 athletes.
U8/U10/12/U14 Awards For the individual overall season awards, U8/U10/12 series races will be scored by age class using current “Old World Cup Points.” A racer may win a series award in only one geographic area (North, Central or South). The results from the championships shall be scored separately. The best four results from the six scheduled series races (regardless of discipline) are used to calculate the series awards. If any of the series’ races are cancelled, one half of the races held are scored (odd numbers are rounded up). A tie is broken by adding a racer’s next best score(s), until the tie is broken.
Maury Rasmussen Team Series Award The Maury Rasmussen Team Series Award (a perpetual trophy) goes to the top team in each of the three geographic areas within Far West. There is no maximum number of competitors per team. For scoring, the top fifteen (15) U12 finishers and top fifteen (15) U10 finishers of the respective geographic area will count. The top five (5) boys and the top three (3) girls from any one team will be scored per race. All series races held will be scored. Scoring will be by “World Cup Points.” This series is named after Maury Rasmussen, the developer of Bear Valley/Mt. Reba and a strong supporter of Far West junior racing.
There are a number of other awards which are described in the Far West Competition Manual referenced above.
U14 Western Region Jr Championships – Jackson Hole, WY, March 15-18, 2018 Quota: Men: 20 Women: 21 The U14 Regional Championships brings together U14 athletes from the five divisions of the Western Region (Alaska, Northern, Pacific Northwest, Intermountain and Far West). This provides them the opportunity to improve their skiing skills and to introduce our athletes and coaches to each other and foster a healthy Regional environment. Athletes must be members in good standing of U.S. Ski & Snowboard and Far West Skiing for the 2017/18 season.
The quota is filled using “World Cup Points” (WCP) scored in the U14 Jr Championships qualifying, California Challenge Series. There are three weekends contesting SL, GS and SG. Each competitor’s top four WCP scores from the six qualifying races count, regardless of discipline.Details can be found in the Far West Skiing Competition Manual.
U14 Performance Camp The camp goal is to bring together U14 athletes from the North, Central and South series and give them the opportunity to improve their skiing skills and to introduce our athletes and coaches to each other and foster a healthy Far West environment. Athletes will have to be current members of US SKI & SNOWBOARD and Far West Skiing for the 2012/13 season.
The camp will rotate throughout the Far West and include three days – Day 1 Super G training, Super G race; Day 2 GS training and GS race; Day 3 Slalom Training and Slalom race. Participants of the U14 Performance Camp will be invited to the U16 Spring Speed Elements Camp.
Far West U14 Divisional Championships Athletes from all three geographic areas will meet at the end of the ski-racing season for the Far West Divisional U14 Championships. The Championships will consist of SG, GS, SL and Parallel. These events will be awarded 1 st-15th place per gender, per age class. Start order will be a random draw for each event held at the Championships which is reversed for the second run if applicable. All competitors are allowed to start the second run in their starting spot, including those who did not finish (DNF) or were disqualified (DSQ) in the first run. The U14 Far West Divisional Championships are open only to current age- eligible members of FWS and US SKI & SNOWBOARD. Competitors from out-of division are not allowed to participate in these races.
U14 Races The U14 program is for racers ages twelve and thirteen. Far West has introduced scored racing for U14 Racers, including those in the Central Series. For more advanced U14 racers Far West divisional races are available in the CALIFORNIA CHALLENGE SERIES. At this level, the competition gets a bit tougher these races provide an avenue to compete in the Wester Region Championships which is by invitation based on points. In scored races, an athlete’s points determine his/her start position for races. These scored races include racers from the entire Far West Division, not just the Central Series. U14 and older racers may also compete in Central Series races on a “non-scored” basis. The US SKI & SNOWBOARD Competition Guide provides an explanation of the scoring system used in ski racing. This explanation may appear to be complicated, but in practice most of the complexity is handled by timing/scoring software. See: US SKI & SNOWBOARD Alpine Competition Guide – Chapter 3
U16 Races The U16 program is for racers ages fourteen and fifteen. U16 Racers can continue to compete in non-scored Central Series. For more advanced U16 racers, scored, Far West divisional races are available. At this level, the competition gets a bit tougher and race teams experience a bit a attrition as athletes develop other interests that conflict with ski racing. Races at this level are “scored” races; where an athletes points determine his/her start position for races. These scored races include racers from the entire Far West Division, not just the Central Series. U16 and older racers may also compete in Central Series races on a “non-scored” basis. The US SKI & SNOWBOARD Competition Guide provides an explanation of the scoring system used in ski racing. This explanation may appear to be complicated, but in practice most of the complexity is handled by timing/scoring software. See: US SKI & SNOWBOARD Alpine Competition Guide – Chapter 3
All U16 and older racers must complete a US SKI & SNOWBOARD and Far West mandated physical assessment prior to competing each season. The coaching staff will advise all team members of the time and date of the physical assessment.
All Far West U16 athletes may compete in the WILD WEST SERIES (qualifiers for the U16 Junior Olympics (U16 JOs)) and the OPEN SERIES. U16s must qualify to participate in GRAND PRIX events (see below).
U16 and Open Race registration will be posted on the Far West Skiing website (http://www.fwskiing.us/). Most of these races will offer online registration with specifics being included on all race announcements. Athletes need to register directly as per race announcements for all these events.
WILD WEST SERIES: This U16-only series includes three (3) SL, three (3) GS and three (3) SG U16 JO qualifying races open to all Far West U16 athletes. When possible, there will be additional events in this series. All racers may participate in the second run of SL and GS events in U16-only competitions. Racers who did not finish or were disqualified in the first run are allowed a second “fun” run; their time will be posted on the unofficial posting board in the finish area but WILL NOT appear on the results. First-run DSQ and DNF racers will take their second “fun” run after all qualified racers and reruns have been completed; run order will be in reverse order of their first run start.
FAR WEST CHAMPIONSHIPS: SL, GS, DH and SG races are open to all U16s.
GRAND PRIX: Grand Prix-qualified U16 athletes may compete in GRAND PRIX races only if there is no conflict with a WILD WEST SERIES race. U16s meeting the Grand Prix point cut-offs in slalom, giant slalom or super-g disciplines may race in those Grand Prix events. Any JO team member from the current or previous season is an automatic for the slalom, giant slalom and SG GRAND PRIX events.
U16 Wild West Competition Awards The goal is to recognize and reward young athletes within skiing skill groups in addition to age classifications. U16 awards will be provided for the U16 Junior Olympic qualifying races (Wild West Series). • All competitors compete for the overall 1st through 10th place awards per gender. • Hard charger awards: For each competition a hard charger award will be provided for men and women per birth year. This is defined as the competitor who moved up the greatest number of places from the start list to final results.
Far West U16 Development Team The U16 Development Team recognizes athletes who have excelled in their specific age group. The team consists of the top four (4) girls and the top four (4) boys from the Junior Olympic qualifying list. A U16 competitor who is selected to the current-season Far West Ski Team is automatically a member of the Development Team and does not count against the quota. Any U16 athlete that is invited to and participated in National Team or US SKI & SNOWBOARD Development Program projects or race events is an automatic to the U16 Development Team.
U8/U10/12/U14/U16 Race Registration A member of BVSF and/or the coaching staff will receive race announcements from the Far West Skiing Administrator. Race announcements will be posted on the TeamBV website and members will receive update notices if there profiles are properly set. All races have now moved to online registration. All race announcements posted on TeamBV.com will indicate the appropriate registration procedure. Race registration is done online at the US Ski & Snowboard website. Instructions can be found the Event Registration Instruction page of the website. Registration procedures are included in race announcements and are on the Far West website.
For each race, competitors must submit the resort specific liability release. In some cases this may be an electronic submission otherwise hard copy releases must be signed and submitted by fax or in person. Entries after registration deadline will incur late fees.
At Central Series races, there is typically an Awards Dinner held on the Saturday night. In addition, a souvenir race t-shirt or sweatshirt is usually produced for the event. The registration coordinator will collect the forms and payments for the dinner and shirts. Both, of course, are optional; although the Awards Dinner are great fun for both parents and racers and should not be missed.
For the Far West Championships and open races, entries should be send directly to the hosting resort per the instructions on the race announcement.
Bear Valley uses online registration for the January Rasmussen Classic U8/U10/12/U14 Slalom race. All competitors will be able to register by going to TeamBV.com and checking the Events page.
. 6. Race Logistics
If you or your athlete have never participated in an organized ski race, a preview of some of the logistics may be helpful. Knowing what to expect and being prepared can make ski racing an enjoyable family experience. Most of this section refers to Central Series races and is intended for new race famililes.
It is helpful to make a checklist of all the gear your racer will need. Many racers are so used to having all their gear in their locker, they can easily forget to bring along vital equipment. Make sure you bring along an extra pair of skis for slip skis if you have them. Especially for GS races, you will want to save your race prepped skis for the competition. If you only have one pair of skis, no problem the coaches and parent assistants will help do a quick prep at the top of the course.
Accomodations There are 4 “away” events for the Bear Valley U8/U10/12/U14 Team; Dodge Ridge, Yosemite, China Peak and the Far West Championships. Lodging for these away events, especially Dodge Ridge and China Peak should be booked as early as possible. A good practice is to make your reservations as soon as the Far West Schedule is pubished for the upcoming season. This usually takes place in late August or early September. Lodging information is contained in the Appendix of this guide. The lodging selections are not exhaustive, but reflect where the Bear Valley team usually stay.If these choices are booked, try to secure accomodations as close to the resort as possible since race days start early.
Race Check-in Each morning, racers need to “check in”, usually about 7:30 am, at a designated point at the hosting resort. This confirms the race organizer has received your registration. This is also where racers can buy discounted lift tickets. For Central Series races, other transactions such as picking up Award Dinner tickets, sweatshirts etc. may also occur at check-in. It is a good idea to make sure you either have plenty of cash or your check book since some venues do not accept credit cards for discounted lift tickets and other event payments..
During the check-in period, Start Lists will be available for the day’s race. Sometimes race day schedules are also availabe. Make sure to pick up a Start List so you know the order in which your racer will be running.
All racers require numbered bibs for the race. For Central Series races permanent bis are used per above information. For other Far West events and U16 and older racers bibs are provide at each race. These bibs are given to the coach at the coaches meeting which is usually held the evening before the race. Make sure you meet the coach at the appointed time to receive a bib. After the event, bibs must be returned. If you don’t return your bib, the team will be charged $50.
Race Schedule After checkin, the team usually assembles at the base of the lift serving the race course, usually around 8-8:30 am. The team will proceed to the top of the course where gear will be dropped. Racers will warm up with free ski runs until the the course is open for inspection, typically 8:30-9:30 am.
During inspection the team slips the course with the coach who describes the best line to take and discusses key points to help the racers maintain a fast line.
For GS and SL events there are generally 2 runs that comprise the race. For most events, the first run begins around 10 am and the second run around 1 pm. A race is held for each level and gender. For example, U8/U10 Girls may take their run first followed by U8/U10 Boys, then U12/U14 Girls, etc. Racers should know approximately when they are scheduled to run so as not to miss his/her start.
The coaches will always be the best source for information about start times and the schedule for the race day.
7. Off-Season
Many racers enroll in summer race camps at Mt. Hood, OR. The Bear Valley Race Team traditionally has attended the Olin-Lacasse Ski Camp operated by Tony Olin and Josee Lacasse. The program consists of one week sessions, 3 days of SL and 3 days of GS.
We attempt to attend the 2nd or 3rd week as a team, but often times some team members cannot attend with the group and choose a different week. Some racers register for back to back weeks to get more practice.
While Ski Camp is an excellent way to continue to build skill, all athletes should be engaged in some sort of sport or physical activity to keep conditioned, build strength and improve coordination. Sports such as soccer, cross country, swimming, cycling are all excellent in terms of conditioning.
8. Appendix I
Race Accommodations
Dodge Ridge http://www.dodgeridge.com/
Pinecrest Chalet 209.965.3276 http://www.pinecrestchalet.com The newest and most diversified complex in the Pinecrest Lake area. Spacious cabins, townhouses and RV Park. Located by the North Fork of the Tuolumne River. Closest lodging to Dodge Ridge Wintersports Area. 500 Dodge Ridge Road, P.O. Box 1279 Pinecrest, CA 95364.
Pinecrest Lake Resort 209.965.3411 http://www.pinecrestlakeresort.com Nestled among towering sugar pines, Pinecrest Lake Resort is only five minutes from Dodge Ridge. Motel Rooms, Cabins, Townhouses, Restaurant and Bar available.
Strawberry Inn 800.965.3662 209.965.3662 http://www.strawberryinn.com Located on the south fork of the Stanislaus River and just five miles from Dodge Ridge, Strawberry Inn is a newly remodeled, full service resort, including a restaurant, bar, and 15 hotel rooms. Located 1 mile east on Hwy. 108 from the Dodge Ridge/Pinecrest turnoff. 31888 Highway 108, P.O. Box 61 Strawberry, CA 95375.
Cabins at Strawberry 888.965.0885 209.965.0885 http://www.cabinsatstrawberry.com P.O. Box 109-31888 • Hwy. 108 Strawberry, CA 95375 Ten new fully-furnished cabins located on the South Fork of the Stanislaus River. 3 bedroom/2 bath cabins. Amenities include: fireplaces, linens, TV/VCR, and fully-stocked kitchens. Open year-round. Pet friendly. Call for reservations or brochure.
China Peak http://www.skichinapeak.com/
China Peak Inn Contact the China Peak Inn at (559) 233-1200 or by email at [email protected] for reservations and room availability. http://www.skichinapeak.com/lodging.aspx The China Peak Inn is located just a short walk to the lifts and offers a variety of rooms and suites in a rustic charm all its own. The Inn’s casual atmosphere allows you to relax after a day on the slopes and enjoy drinks in the Buckhorn Bar or a casual meal in the Dining Room.
Lakeshore Resort 866 736-8405 http://www.lakeshoreresort.com/ Located just minutes from China Peak, Lakeshore Resort offers rustic hospitality in charming cabins at a reasonable price
Tamarack Motor Lodge Located 5 miles from China Peak 559/893-3244 9 studio suites
Huntington Condos 800-422-4102
Other Accommodation options can be found at http://www.shaverlake.com/
North Tahoe-
Donner Lake Village Resort has studios, one bedroom and townhouse accomodations. Phone: 1800 621 6664 Web: http://www.donnerlakevillage.com Good location for Sugar Bowl and Boreal events
Truckee-Tahoe Hotels http://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotels-g33191-Truckee_Lake_Tahoe_California_California- Hotels.html
Mammoth Mtn.
Viewpoint Condos 1-800-826-6680 website: http://www.viewpointcondos.com These are nice 1 bedroom and 1 bedroom with loft.Prices are reasonable and location is convenient
Mammoth Mountain Inn 1-800-MAMMOTH https://www.themammothmountaininn.com/ Located at the main base of Mammoth Mtn, the Mammoth Mountain Inn is the most convenient location to access the mountain. Condos are a bit pricey, but rooms may be a good alternative.
Snowcreek Resort (Condos) http://www.snowcreekresort.com/ Toll Free: 1-800-544-6007 Local: (760) 934-3333 P.O. Box 1647 1254 Old Mammoth Road Mammoth Lakes, CA 93546 Snowcreek Resort Vacation Rentals provides Mammoth Lakes visitors with luxurious condominiums and town homes in a variety of floor plans. These units can be economical especially if shared.
Yosemite
Tenaya Lodge http://www.tenayalodge.com/ Tenaya Lodge toll free at 888-514-2167 Monday-Friday 7 a.m. to 9 p.m., Saturday and Sunday 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tenaya Lodge at Yosemite is a classic mountain resort set two miles from Yosemite National Park’s southern gate
Yosemite Lodge at the Falls http://www.yosemite.com/lodging-hotels/yosemite-valley-lodge/ Make your Yosemite reservation online or call us at (801) 559-4884 Closest property to Yosemite Falls, the main complex was redesigned with an emphasis on glass and wood detailing to blend harmoniously with its surroundings
9. Appendix II
Website Resources:
US SKI & SNOWBOARD - http://www.ussa.org/
Far West Division of US SKI & SNOWBOARD - http://www.fwskiing.us/
Race Werks - http://www.race-werks.com/
The Race Place - http://www.the-raceplace.com /
Artech - http://www.artechski.com/
Start Haus - http://starthaus.com/index.php
Ski Depot - http://www.ski-depot.com/
6. Race Logistics
If you or your athlete have never participated in an organized ski race, a preview of some of the logistics may be helpful. Knowing what to expect and being prepared can make ski racing an enjoyable family experience. Most of this section refers to Central Series races and is intended for new race famililes.
It is helpful to make a checklist of all the gear your racer will need. Many racers are so used to having all their gear in their locker, they can easily forget to bring along vital equipment. Make sure you bring along an extra pair of skis for slip skis if you have them. Especially for GS races, you will want to save your race prepped skis for the competition. If you only have one pair of skis, no problem the coaches and parent assistants will help do a quick prep at the top of the course.
Accomodations There are 4 “away” events for the Bear Valley U8/U10/12/U14 Team; Dodge Ridge, Yosemite, China Peak and the Far West Championships. Lodging for these away events, especially Dodge Ridge and China Peak should be booked as early as possible. A good practice is to make your reservations as soon as the Far West Schedule is pubished for the upcoming season. This usually takes place in late August or early September. Lodging information is contained in the Appendix of this guide. The lodging selections are not exhaustive, but reflect where the Bear Valley team usually stay.If these choices are booked, try to secure accomodations as close to the resort as possible since race days start early.
Race Check-in Each morning, racers need to “check in”, usually about 7:30 am, at a designated point at the hosting resort. This confirms the race organizer has received your registration. This is also where racers can buy discounted lift tickets. For Central Series races, other transactions such as picking up Award Dinner tickets, sweatshirts etc. may also occur at check-in. It is a good idea to make sure you either have plenty of cash or your check book since some venues do not accept credit cards for discounted lift tickets and other event payments..
During the check-in period, Start Lists will be available for the day’s race. Sometimes race day schedules are also availabe. Make sure to pick up a Start List so you know the order in which your racer will be running.
All racers require numbered bibs for the race. For Central Series races permanent bis are used per above information. For other Far West events and U16 and older racers bibs are provide at each race. These bibs are given to the coach at the coaches meeting which is usually held the evening before the race. Make sure you meet the coach at the appointed time to receive a bib. After the event, bibs must be returned. If you don’t return your bib, the team will be charged $50.
Race Schedule After checkin, the team usually assembles at the base of the lift serving the race course, usually around 8-8:30 am. The team will proceed to the top of the course where gear will be dropped. Racers will warm up with free ski runs until the the course is open for inspection, typically 8:30-9:30 am.
During inspection the team slips the course with the coach who describes the best line to take and discusses key points to help the racers maintain a fast line.
For GS and SL events there are generally 2 runs that comprise the race. For most events, the first run begins around 10 am and the second run around 1 pm. A race is held for each level and gender. For example, U8/U10 Girls may take their run first followed by U8/U10 Boys, then U12/U14 Girls, etc. Racers should know approximately when they are scheduled to run so as not to miss his/her start.
The coaches will always be the best source for information about start times and the schedule for the race day.
7. Off-Season
Many racers enroll in summer race camps at Mt. Hood, OR. The Bear Valley Race Team traditionally has attended the Olin-Lacasse Ski Camp operated by Tony Olin and Josee Lacasse. The program consists of one week sessions, 3 days of SL and 3 days of GS.
We attempt to attend the 2nd or 3rd week as a team, but often times some team members cannot attend with the group and choose a different week. Some racers register for back to back weeks to get more practice.
While Ski Camp is an excellent way to continue to build skill, all athletes should be engaged in some sort of sport or physical activity to keep conditioned, build strength and improve coordination. Sports such as soccer, cross country, swimming, cycling are all excellent in terms of conditioning.
8. Appendix I
Race Accommodations
Dodge Ridge http://www.dodgeridge.com/
Pinecrest Chalet 209.965.3276 http://www.pinecrestchalet.com The newest and most diversified complex in the Pinecrest Lake area. Spacious cabins, townhouses and RV Park. Located by the North Fork of the Tuolumne River. Closest lodging to Dodge Ridge Wintersports Area. 500 Dodge Ridge Road, P.O. Box 1279 Pinecrest, CA 95364.
Pinecrest Lake Resort 209.965.3411 http://www.pinecrestlakeresort.com Nestled among towering sugar pines, Pinecrest Lake Resort is only five minutes from Dodge Ridge. Motel Rooms, Cabins, Townhouses, Restaurant and Bar available.
Strawberry Inn 800.965.3662 209.965.3662 http://www.strawberryinn.com Located on the south fork of the Stanislaus River and just five miles from Dodge Ridge, Strawberry Inn is a newly remodeled, full service resort, including a restaurant, bar, and 15 hotel rooms. Located 1 mile east on Hwy. 108 from the Dodge Ridge/Pinecrest turnoff. 31888 Highway 108, P.O. Box 61 Strawberry, CA 95375.
Cabins at Strawberry 888.965.0885 209.965.0885 http://www.cabinsatstrawberry.com P.O. Box 109-31888 • Hwy. 108 Strawberry, CA 95375 Ten new fully-furnished cabins located on the South Fork of the Stanislaus River. 3 bedroom/2 bath cabins. Amenities include: fireplaces, linens, TV/VCR, and fully-stocked kitchens. Open year-round. Pet friendly. Call for reservations or brochure.
China Peak http://www.skichinapeak.com/
China Peak Inn Contact the China Peak Inn at (559) 233-1200 or by email at [email protected] for reservations and room availability. http://www.skichinapeak.com/lodging.aspx The China Peak Inn is located just a short walk to the lifts and offers a variety of rooms and suites in a rustic charm all its own. The Inn’s casual atmosphere allows you to relax after a day on the slopes and enjoy drinks in the Buckhorn Bar or a casual meal in the Dining Room.
Lakeshore Resort 866 736-8405 http://www.lakeshoreresort.com/ Located just minutes from China Peak, Lakeshore Resort offers rustic hospitality in charming cabins at a reasonable price
Tamarack Motor Lodge Located 5 miles from China Peak 559/893-3244 9 studio suites
Huntington Condos 800-422-4102
Other Accommodation options can be found at http://www.shaverlake.com/
North Tahoe-
Donner Lake Village Resort has studios, one bedroom and townhouse accomodations. Phone: 1800 621 6664 Web: http://www.donnerlakevillage.com Good location for Sugar Bowl and Boreal events
Truckee-Tahoe Hotels http://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotels-g33191-Truckee_Lake_Tahoe_California_California- Hotels.html
Mammoth Mtn.
Viewpoint Condos 1-800-826-6680 website: http://www.viewpointcondos.com These are nice 1 bedroom and 1 bedroom with loft.Prices are reasonable and location is convenient
Mammoth Mountain Inn 1-800-MAMMOTH https://www.themammothmountaininn.com/ Located at the main base of Mammoth Mtn, the Mammoth Mountain Inn is the most convenient location to access the mountain. Condos are a bit pricey, but rooms may be a good alternative.
Snowcreek Resort (Condos) http://www.snowcreekresort.com/ Toll Free: 1-800-544-6007 Local: (760) 934-3333 P.O. Box 1647 1254 Old Mammoth Road Mammoth Lakes, CA 93546 Snowcreek Resort Vacation Rentals provides Mammoth Lakes visitors with luxurious condominiums and town homes in a variety of floor plans. These units can be economical especially if shared.
Yosemite
Tenaya Lodge http://www.tenayalodge.com/ Tenaya Lodge toll free at 888-514-2167 Monday-Friday 7 a.m. to 9 p.m., Saturday and Sunday 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tenaya Lodge at Yosemite is a classic mountain resort set two miles from Yosemite National Park’s southern gate
Yosemite Lodge at the Falls http://www.yosemite.com/lodging-hotels/yosemite-valley-lodge/ Make your Yosemite reservation online or call us at (801) 559-4884 Closest property to Yosemite Falls, the main complex was redesigned with an emphasis on glass and wood detailing to blend harmoniously with its surroundings
9. Appendix II
Website Resources:
US SKI & SNOWBOARD - http://www.ussa.org/
Far West Division of US SKI & SNOWBOARD - http://www.fwskiing.us/
Race Werks - http://www.race-werks.com/
The Race Place - http://www.the-raceplace.com /
Artech - http://www.artechski.com/
Start Haus - http://starthaus.com/index.php
Ski Depot - http://www.ski-depot.com/